As Tucson moves into a warmer season, the men on campus will begin to shed their winter wear in favor of clothing that’s a little less refined and a little more suited to a beach party. We go to school in one of the best climates in the country, with few cold days to our name, so it’s allowed.
However, you can only rock the tank top to a certain extent. Boardshorts will inevitably come out, flip-flops will adorn the male population’s feet and the rest of us will collectively cringe at the outcome.
Instead, when the heat turns up, opt for these alternatives to your typical bro-wear. Your image, your girlfriend and your soon-to-be-adult self will thank you for it later.
Get rid of the cargo shorts and boardshorts.
Unless you find yourself venturing out on a safari or about to go surf Pipeline, you don’t need either of these. There’s nothing flattering about cargo shorts, as their bulky lines and excess pockets ruin what could be a good cut. Boardshorts are just as guilty, with their flowing material and too-bright colors.
Instead, try something that sits slightly above the knee and has a tailored line, with high-rise pockets on your rear.
Cool deep blues, blacks, muted khaki and cream tones will work with just about any shirt and shoes, allowing you to dress up or down for any occasion.
Tuck in the button up shirt and throw on a belt, and you’re ready to meet the parents or play the back nine at the country club anytime.
You’re not at the beach. Lose the flip-flops.
Slaps, sandals, flip-flops, no matter you call them, people shouldn’t be able to know you’re coming down the block from the sound of your footwear alone, unless you’re wearing tap shoes or high heels. Yes, freshmen, they’re acceptable in the showers and at the Student Recreation Center, but that’s about as far as it goes.
Stick to your old standby of Vans Old Schools on your way to class, but pair those new shorts with canvas or leather Sperrys, or even oxblood or black penny loafers. Sperrys are classic and versatile, and penny loafers are perfect with a light poplin shirt and a sport coat for warm date nights out.
*Keep your sleeves on. You’re not Arnold Schwarzenegger circa 1980. *
Disclaimer: I am as guilty of wearing the bro tank as anyone else, and I’ve also been ruthlessly mocked by my friends for my affinity for said bro tank, to the point that those times when I did wear sleeves elicited wonder and confusion.
Those days are no more, however. With the addition of open-necked T-shirts and light, timeless chambray workwear, I’ve begun to transcend the bro tank and become a man.
For surviving the heat, super light, pre-washed cotton is your best friend. Make sure your shirts are breathable but not as light or transparent as chiffon, and opt for chambray shirts in lighter tones. When paired with tailored denim jeans or khaki shorts, the chambray becomes the most valuable piece of menswear in your sartorial arsenal.
But really, when the temperature gets above a hundred degrees, who the hell cares what you wear — just don’t die of heat stroke.
